Ultrasound scans use high-frequency sound waves to capture images and video. This helps doctors view portions of the body's interior without making an incision. Just as sonar and radar help the military detect planes and ships, ultrasound helps do...

An MRI, which stands for magnetic resonance imaging, is a type of noninvasive test that uses magnets and radio waves to create images of the inside of the body. Unlike a CT scan, an MRI uses no radiation and is considered a safer alternative. The ...

A CT scan is a type of X-ray that can show cross-sectional images of a specific area of the body. The machine circles the body and sends the images to a computer, where they are viewed by a technician. Each picture is viewed as a cross-section of ...

A computerized tomography scan (CT or CAT scan) is a series of cross-sectional X-ray images of your body. CT scans are used to examine your bones and soft tissues for damage or abnormalities. Often, these images can be combined to create a 3D pict...

An ultrasound scan is a medical test that uses high-frequency sound waves to capture live images from the inside of your body. The technology is similar to that used by sonar and radar, which help the military detect planes and ships. An ultrasoun...

A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan is a noninvasive test that uses magnets and radio waves to create images of the inside of your body. It allows doctors to see details of your organs and tissues without having to make any incisions. Accordin...

Pelvic laparoscopy is a procedure that examines your reproductive organs. Your doctor uses an instrument called a laparoscope to perform the procedure. A laparoscope is a long, thin tube with a high-intensity light and high-resolution camera. Your...

Laparoscopy is a type of surgery. As a diagnostic procedure, it is used to examine the organs inside your abdomen. This is also referred to as a diagnostic laparoscopy. Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure. Only small incisions are made. ...

Endoscopy is a procedure that uses a specialized flexible tube with an attached camera to view and operate on the internal organs. This allows surgeons to view problems within your body without having to make large incisions. It is often performed...